Project of Hue – Da Nang steam trains for tourists to be approved

In 2025, the Vietnamese Ministry of Transport has approved a project to reintroduce steam locomotive trains on the Hue – Da Nang Railway, part of the Hanoi-Ho Chi Minh route, specifically for tourism purposes.

This initiative is a collaborative effort between Vietnam Railways (VNR) and Indochina Rail Tourist Service Co., Ltd. The project aims to enhance tourism in the region by providing an authentic travel experience.

The developers are tasked with completing essential infrastructure improvements, including the installation of swing bridges and standard fire hydrants, to facilitate the safe operation of the steam locomotives.

With a total investment of VND 81 billion, Indochina Rail Co., Ltd. will cover costs associated with using the railway section and will be required to restore the infrastructure when directed by the Ministry. VNR will oversee transportation services and manage the operating schedules for the steam trains.

Steam trains were phased out in Vietnam during the 1990s in favor of diesel engines, marking a significant transformation in the country’s railway transport.

Operating through the scenic Hai Van Pass—regarded as one of the most picturesque routes in Vietnam—the newly introduced steam trains will feature VIP carriages, dining facilities, and sightseeing cars, promising to attract more tourists traveling from Lang Co (Hue) to Da Nang.

Aerial view of train and railway on Hai Van Pass

The steam train service is designed not to interfere with existing passenger and freight transportation operations on the North-South railway route, ensuring that conventional services remain unaffected.